Termites are a
problem in every state of the country, except Alaska. That means a large
majority of the US population has to live with the fear that termites could
strike their homes at will any moment; the damage could be severe, if they are
not on guard.
It’s not good
for you live with the constant stress and worry of a probable termite invasion.
It is best to engage a reputed termite control company at the earliest to get
rid of the pests completely.
Swarmers
Mature termite
colonies send young flying termites out into the world; the latter start new
nests of their own. Hundreds of these young termites that leave in a group at a
time look similar to a swarm of flying ants. Flying ants too are pests, but not
as destructive as termites. Mistaking one for the other is easy and common; avoid
this common mistake that could lead to serious consequences.
If you notice
flying insects in your home, catch one immediately and examine it. The two sets
of wings of termites are of the same size and their antennae are straight and
beaded. Flying ants have smaller rear wings and the antennae are jointed. Take
immediate action if the invaders are termites.
Termite tubes
Termites are
surprisingly delicate insects that do not have any form of defense against
predators. They can survive only in a moist, protected environment. If they are
not underground or inside wood, they need to build tiny tunnels of cellulose
and mud in which they can move easily from one spot to another. If you notice
in your house small mud colored tubes that look like tiny straws, particularly
around the foundation, you can be sure that you have unwelcome visitors.
Hollow wood
Termites consume
wood unseen; signs of termite activity are difficult to spot until cracks and
depressions appear on the surface of wood. However, if you tap the damaged wood
with a spoon or a knuckle, you can hear an unnatural hollow sound; that could
indicate termite infestation.
Termite
cement
Termites need a damp protected environment, once they get into
cracks in cement and wood; they use
cellulose and mud to make cement like material that would plug the cracks,
prevent moisture loss and reduce the flow of air. If you see signs of these ‘cement’ plugs, especially near the foundation of the house, you may guess you have
a termite problem.
Carry out regular safety check
A regular safety
check for termite infestation is a great idea. However, it is often difficult
to identify the presence of termites. Clear signs may appear only after a great
deal of damage is already done, warranting thousands of dollars in repairs.
A reputed termite control company should carry
out periodical inspection and undertake suitable termite treatment, if
required. That will get rid of any of the pests that may be lurking around. The very best termite control companies offer a full three-year structure warranty.
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